Platter, 8 x7.125 inches. Blue transfer. Printed maker's mark for the Royal Worcester Porcelain Co. The letter 'U' under the mark dates production of the pattern to 1883. The pattern was registered May 7, 1879 according to the diamond mark. Beneath the four cartouches in deep blue is a sheet pattern of gray blossoms. The pattern consists of four cartouches, shaped differently. Each cartouche contains an image which shows water. Two contain boats, another mountains and water, and finally, simply, water and sky.

The first production of porcelain in Worcester took place in 1751. An eminent surgeon, Dr John Wall, perfected the secret recipe for the production of soft paste porcelain and a factory was founded on the banks of the river Severn. The river was essential for transporting both production materials and wares. Having gained a reputation for producing quality tableware, Worcester flourished under the guidance of a series of owners. The companies were Chamberlains, Flight Barr, Lockie and Grainger, and Binns Kerr. All made improvements to the manufacture of porcelain, adding new glazes, shapes and designs. The Worcester factory was able to engage the services of excellent artists and some of the finest porcelain was produced there. Royal patronage was added, firstly by king George III in 1789 and has been continually reviewed and renewed with each change of monarch. In 1862 The Royal Worcester porcelain company was formed. The factory continued producing mainly tableware during the nineteenth century and a few figurines were introduced, mostly by James Hadley.